Researchers at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Rourkela have announced a significant development in antibiotic medicine, reporting success in creating zinc oxide nanoparticles capable of fighting drug-resistant “superbugs,” according to reports on Thursday.
The team developed the nanoparticles using extracts from naturally available plants, aiming to provide an eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical synthesis methods. Traditional approaches often involve harsh substances that can be harmful to humans and the environment.
Suman Jha, an associate professor at NIT Rourkela, explained that the nanoparticles destroy bacterial cells by producing reactive molecules that interfere with essential cellular processes and weaken the cell membrane, NDTV reported.
To synthesise the nanoparticles, the researchers used extracts from marigold petals and leaves of mango and eucalyptus plants to transform zinc salts into zinc oxide nanocrystals.
These natural extracts not only facilitated the synthesis but also helped stabilise the particles through a protective “herbal shield” known as a phyto-corona. This layer regulates zinc ion release and enhances antibacterial activity.
The phyto-corona enables the nanoparticles to adhere to bacterial cells, release zinc ions, and disrupt key cell functions, leading to the bacteria’s destruction. The mechanism involves damaging the cell membrane, generating reactive oxygen species, and interfering with internal biological processes ultimately causing bacterial death.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, the plant-based method was reportedly twice as effective as chemically synthesised versions, successfully eliminating two common bacterial strains—E. coli and Bacillus subtilis.
Jha noted that the study represents a move toward developing a new generation of sustainable, green nanomaterials that could strengthen the sustainable healthcare system.